What it means
An anal fissure is a small tear in the lining of the anus, often from passing hard stool, which hurts and may bleed. Fissures also form in dry, thick skin such as the heels. In anatomy, fissures are deep natural grooves, as in the brain.
For the nurse
For an anal fissure, teach a high-fiber diet, plenty of fluids, stool softeners and warm sitz baths.
At a glance
| Spanish | fisura |
|---|---|
| Also written | fissures |
Related terms
constipation
Bowel movements that happen less often than usual, with hard, dry stool that is difficult to pass.
lesion
An area of tissue that has been damaged or has changed from normal, such as a sore, wound, lump or spot.